Just last week I stocked up on some dark chocolate from my local CVS. Whenever I buy chocolate it reminds me of being a pre-teen after school. Ahh…the bus memories!

The school bus would drop all of our school worn selves at the corner. We’d hop off the bus and run across the street making a beeline for the mecca of candy and soda, 7-11. My friends would buy a variety of candies, but I always stuck to chocolate. I really didn’t see the point in buying the other stuff. I think right then and there, I realized, there’s nothing more satisfying than buying and then unwrapping a bar of chocolate. It felt elegant, substantial and nothing compared to it’s delicious taste.

This short trip down memory lane prompted me to explore the health benefits of chocolate and how we should include chocolate in our diets (ok, I admit, I eat at least square or two daily).

Dark chocolate, has numerous health benefits. Its rich antioxidants and lower sugar content compared to milk chocolate, is a healthier choice for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth cravings while still supporting their well-being.

Did you know?

Dark chocolate is a superfood that contains many nutrients, including fiber, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. It also contains antioxidants, such as flavanols and polyphenols.

Some research suggests that dark chocolate may have the following benefits:

According to health experts, a healthy amount of dark chocolate to eat per day is around 30-60 grams, which is about two to four small squares of a chocolate bar. You should aim for chocolate that is at least 70% cocoa. This type of chocolate contains more natural fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, and fewer other ingredients, like refined sugar and additives.

Dark chocolate is the healthiest type of chocolate because it has the least sugar and contains substances that protect cells. Dark chocolate with a cocoa percentage of 70% or higher is the healthiest because it contains more antioxidants and health benefits.

A 2022 study found that dark chocolate with 85% cacao has mood-boosting qualities. However, you should choose the highest percentage you actually enjoy eating.

Once when my daughter had her friend over at the house, they were getting a little snacky and raided the fridge. Her friend saw the chocolate bar and broke off a piece. Before my daughter could warn her she had popped a square of chocolate into her mouth. After a few chews her face turned to shock, “This is not chocolate. It’s not sweet and it tastes…well, awful.” She proceeded to tear off a few paper towels and wipe off her tongue. She had just eaten 90% chocolate. And was not a fan.

Our Guide to the Healthiest Chocolates

Here is our picks for the healthiest dark chocolates available, we've compiled a list of the top 10 options, ranked from the most nutritious to the slightly more indulgent.

1. Lindt 85% Cocoa Dark Chocolate

Lindt's 85% cocoa dark chocolate tops our list due to its high cocoa content and minimal added sugars. This dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and has a robust flavor that's perfect for true chocolate aficionados. This version is not like traditional chocolates. It’s really not very sweet at all. You get the chocolate taste at full volume, so be prepared.

2. Ghirardelli Intense Dark Chocolate

Ghirardelli's Intense Dark Chocolate comes in a variety of high cocoa content options, providing the antioxidant benefits of dark chocolate with a smooth and indulgent taste. This is one of dark chocolates I recommend if you are just beginning your dark chocolate journey. It’s still a little sweet and helps you to move into the dark chocolate taste profile with a baby step.

3. Godiva 72% Cacao Dark Chocolate

Godiva's 72% cacao dark chocolate offers a balanced flavor profile while maintaining a relatively high cocoa content. It's an excellent choice for those transitioning from sweeter chocolates to the darker varieties. We also recommend this dark chocolate for those switching to dark chocolate. It has a lovely smooth flavor that you will enjoy!

4. Valrhona Guanaja 70% Dark Chocolate

Valrhona's Guanaja 70% dark chocolate stands out for its exceptional quality and complex flavors, making it a delicious and health-conscious choice. This is the chocolate that chefs and dark chocolate connoisseurs enjoy.

5. Green & Black's Organic 70% Dark Chocolate

Green & Black's organic dark chocolate is not only a delightful treat but also an ethical choice. With 70% cocoa content, it strikes a balance between health-consciousness and indulgence. Green & Black’s clean taste is sure to please!

6. Theo Chocolate 85% Dark Chocolate

Theo Chocolate's 85% dark chocolate is crafted with organic and fair-trade ingredients, providing both purity and intense cocoa flavor for those who prefer a bolder taste. And at 85% it’s not going to taste sweet but full of chocolate flavor.

7. Endangered Species Chocolate 88% Dark Chocolate

Endangered Species Chocolate's 88% dark chocolate is a guilt-free indulgence, with a significant cocoa content and a portion of the proceeds supporting wildlife conservation. At 88% it has an intense dark chocolate taste without much sweetness.

8. Chocolove Extra Strong Dark Chocolate (88% Cocoa)

Chocolove's Extra Strong Dark Chocolate offers a robust 88% cocoa content, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate the deeply satisfying bitterness of dark chocolate. I’ve had most of Chocolove’s chocolates and at any strength, they are clean tasting with great chocolaty flavor. The higher percentage, the less sugar it contains.

9. Alter Eco Super Blackout Organic Dark Chocolate (90% Cocoa)

Alter Eco's Super Blackout Organic Dark Chocolate is a high-cocoa-content delight for health-conscious consumers seeking a rich and intense chocolate experience. But be forewarned…the 90% Cocoa will not be all that sweet, but intense in dark chocolate flavor.

10. Lily's Dark Chocolate (Stevia-Sweetened)

Lily's Dark Chocolate is a unique option sweetened with stevia, making it a low-sugar alternative for those looking to minimize their sugar intake while indulging in dark chocolate. The stevia is a prebiotic that is great for gut health.

At the End of the Day

These top 10 options offer a range of choices to satisfy different tastes and preferences. From Lindt's 85% cocoa dark chocolate to Lily's stevia-sweetened variety, there's a healthier dark chocolate option for every taste. I do recommend trying each one to see what you prefer and enjoy.

I hate to break it to you though…This is going to be the hard part, remember to eat chocolate in moderation to maximize its potential health benefits in your diet.

So, go ahead and treat yourself without guilt to nutritious and delicious dark chocolates to satisfy both your taste buds and your wellness goals.